NATO has certified Applied Research Institute, a national security innovation firm, as an approved partner under the NATO Communications and Information Agency’s Framework Agreement program. This designation allows ARI to provide commercial off-the-shelf products and services to NATO and its member nations.
According to the Indiana-based nonprofit, the partnership involves a basic ordering agreement framework that runs through 2027, through which ARI can take part in streamlined procurement processes for NATO’s technology requirements. ARI said the certification provides the company with increased credibility, direct access to NATO’s procurement needs, integration into the alliance’s global ecosystem and expedited acquisition processes.
“Becoming a NATO partner represents a significant milestone in ARI’s commitment to supporting global defense and security initiatives,” said ARI CEO David Roberts. “This agreement positions us to deliver innovative solutions that enhance NATO’s technological capabilities while maintaining the highest standards of security and reliability.”
The NATO partnership complements ARI’s existing projects in several key technology areas, including the Heartland BioWorks initiative, a biotech manufacturing regional tech hub focused on catalyzing innovation and entrepreneurship in next-generation biotechnology. The research firm is also a key partner in DARPAConnect, a program launched by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency in 2022 to facilitate collaboration with small businesses and educational institutions in the national security space.
Additionally, ARI leads the Silicon Crossroads Microelectronic Commons Hub, a multi-state coalition driving innovation and workforce development in microelectronics to strengthen America’s domestic microelectronics industry.